Definition
The federation card is the document linking a player to a club and category for a specific season. The club processes it before the regional federation; once approved, it enables the player to compete in official fixtures.
Not to be confused with the federation licence (the physical/digital ID evidencing the link). The card is the administrative registration; the licence is the credential. To process the card the club needs: player data (ID, date of birth, photo), medical certificate when required, parental authorisation for minors and payment of the federation fee.
When does it apply?
Applies each season for every player competing officially. Cards are renewed at season start and additions and removals can be processed mid-season within federation deadlines. Each federation sets its calendar, typically late July to late October, with later windows for additions.
Practical example
Common mistakes
- Filing a card without the required medical certificate: federation rejects and delays activation.
- Forgetting parental authorisation for minors: card rejected or invalidated later.
- Moving a player to a new team without a new card: counted as ineligible fielding and sanctionable.
- Missing the removal deadline: a late removal can prevent registration at another club that season.
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